John the Baptist's disciples presented Jesus with a perplexing question about fasting. Specifically, since they and the Pharisees often fasted, they wanted to know why the disciples of Jesus did not fast? Answering, Jesus said that since He was still present with the disciples, it would be inappropriate for them to fast. Once he has been taken away from them, they would fast. For now, they should spend their days in a spirit of joy and openness.

Indeed, the subsequent examples of old cloth and new wineskins illustrate how one should deal with newness. If the Genesis drama between siblings and spouses could be seen anew, perhaps when parental blessings are given unreservedly, the lineage of bitterness prevalent in the Old Testament would not have prevailed, rather one of abiding harmony.

Jesus invites us to move beyond the issue of fasting into the broader question of what are appropriate dispositions to welcoming and nurturing new life within us.

Let us be attentive and recognise the newness around us. Let us respond appropriately by listening to His voice. Fasting is necessary but it should not be a perpetual diet which deprives others from enjoying the abiding moments of a relationship. The point which Jesus focuses on are the abiding relationships, whether in feasting or fasting. His words are blessings to a lasting relationship without reserve.

Are we the sheep who heed His voice?